It is important to keep your contact lenses clean in order to keep your eyes safe. However, if your contact lenses have, somehow, become dirty, you might be unaware of what you should do to keep your eyes healthy. There is a way to keep, both, your investment and your eyes safe. Here is a list of best practices to follow if you’re facing the dilemma of having dirty contact lenses.
Carry Cleaning Solution
It is important not to use tap water, or any other foreign liquid, to clean dirty contact lenses, as they can cause severe eye infections. It is important to keep bacteria, microorganisms and abrasive chemicals as far away from your eyes as possible. If you already carry saline drops along with you to combat dry eye, or the morning irritation that some contact wearers experience, you can simply use these drops to clean your dirty lens as well. If you do not currently carry saline drops, solution or cleaner with you, it is advisable to keep an emergency bottle on hand in case you your lens become dirty. If you’re unsure whether your favorite solution or cleaner comes in travel sizes, contact us and we’ll be sure to let you know. Also, be sure to inspect the lens for any tears, scratches, dirt or imperfections before putting it back on your eye.
Clean with Caution
Be sure to clean your lens carefully. Place your lens in the palm of your hand and rinse it with sterilizing solution, moving it around with your fingertip. Be sure only to use your fingertips and never touch your lens with your fingernails. After 15 to 30 seconds of soaking is will be safe to put it back on your eye.
In Case of Emergency
In the event that you lose the lens or are unable to clean the one that became dirty, it’s important to keep a spare pair of glasses handy. That way, if you have to do anything that requires corrected vision, such as driving or reading, you will be prepared.
Soak your Lens Overnight
While washing off your dropped lens in solution or cleaner and inspecting it for dirt or damaged should make it safe enough to wear, it is also advisable to soak the lens overnight. This is especially true if you dropped your lens in a public place, or in a place that is particularly germ filled such as your kitchen counter. Soaking your lens overnight is sure to disinfect any lingering germs you may have missed during your initial, emergency, wash.
Now that you know what to do in the event that your contact lens become dirty, you will be better prepared to protect your lens and your eyes. If your are experiencing issues with your eyes or prescription lenses, or have any questions and concerns, of any kind, feel free to contact Dr. Ghosheh, today, at 1-949-582-1090.